Act on Electronic Services and Communication in the Public Sector (Finland)
What Is This Law About?
The Act on Electronic Services and Communication in the Public Sector (also known as "Finlex 13/2003") is a Finnish law that ensures public sector websites and digital services are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. The goal is to make sure that government agencies, municipalities, and other public bodies provide online services that are easy to use for all citizens.
Key Requirements in Simple Terms
1. Accessible Websites & Apps – Public sector websites and mobile apps must be designed so that people with disabilities (such as visual or hearing impairments) can use them without barriers.
2. Clear & Simple Content – Information should be easy to read and understand, with options like text-to-speech or screen reader compatibility.
3. Alternative Formats – Important documents (like PDFs) should be available in accessible formats upon request.
4. Ongoing Compliance – Public organizations must regularly check and update their digital services to meet accessibility standards.
Important Dates
- The law was first passed in 2003 and has been updated over time to align with EU accessibility rules.
- Since 2019, stricter EU-wide accessibility requirements (under the Web Accessibility Directive) also apply to Finnish public sector websites.
Who Needs to Follow This Law?
All Finnish public sector bodies, including:
- Government agencies
- Municipalities (cities & towns)
- Public hospitals, schools, and universities
- State-owned companies
Based on Official Document
This explanation is a simplified summary of the Act on Electronic Services and Communication in the Public Sector (Finlex 13/2003). For full details, refer to the official document here: https://www.finlex.fi/fi/lainsaadanto/2003/13